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Power Theory: An Axe to Grind
Power Theory: An Axe to Grind
Heavy/Power Metal
3.5/5.0
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Pure Steel Records
by Craig Hartranft, 06.22.2012
Here's Power Theory, another band from Pennsylvania, kicking it old school with classic American heavy power metal. An Axe to Grind is their second title for the German label Pure Steel Records. Also, with this recording it appears that Power Theory may have a more stable lineup.
Power Theory: not enough cups to go around.
It would be enough to say that Power Theory stays the course which they laid on Out of the Ashes, Into the Fire. The influence of 80's metal giants, like Accept, Maiden, and Saxon, remains as does the simple commitment to traditional or 'true' metal. The song composition is quite well-developed, even mature, offering, if you listen for it, some greater intrigue. You can hear this in Deceiver, Pure Steel, or the title track. Interesting on that latter track is skillful bass work of Jay Pekala. Yet, his contributions are significant throughout; take note of Colossus as well. Generally, across this album, Power Theory packs much into every song. There can be sweltering heaviness as with The Seer or Deceiver, or slick speed metal as with A Fist in the Face of God. Throughout founding member and guitarist Bob Ballinger offers some skillful metal solos.
For genuine classic heavy metal, 'true' metal the band would insist, with sides of speed and power metal, Power Theory's An Axe to Grind is solid contribution from a band committed to its craft.
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In Short
For genuine classic heavy metal, 'true' metal the band would insist, with sides of speed and power metal, Power Theory's An Axe to Grind is solid contribution from a band committed to its craft.
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